Thomas Stephen Durica, age 68 of Shallotte, NC and previously of Bridgeport CT, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 2, 2016 in his home. Born in Bridgeport to the late Joseph and Ann (Mojcik) Durica, he was a graduate of Bullard Havens Technical School and a retired firefighter after 22 years in the Bridgeport fire department. Tom proudly served his country as a Seabee in the US Navy and was a Vietnam veteran. Tom loved the game of golf, was an avid sports fan and going to the Casino. Tom is survived by his sister Barbara and husband Joseph Bucko of Seymour, a nephew Joseph Bucko III (Maria) of Newtown, a niece Debbie McSperrin (Bruce) of Beacon Falls, two great nephews, Zack and Max McSperrin, a great niece Grace McSperrin and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his niece and goddaughter, Penny Bucko, and a nephew Jeffrey Bucko. Friends may greet the family on Monday, November 21, 2016 from 4-7 pm in the Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford. Prayers will be at 4:45pm. Interment will be private. The family requests in lieu of flowers those desiring may make donations in Tom's memory to the Bridgeport Fallen Firefighters Fund, c/o The Bridgeport Fire Department Employees Federal Credit Union, 3115 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06606. To see more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/ctpost/obituary